I've read a couple of people's comments on other boards that state something to the effect of "Well, the guy wasn't hurt. Simon should've just gotten two minutes."
Um...not the point, guys.
Whether the player was hurt or not is immaterial. The intent to injure was clearly there. The NHL or Colin Campbell (whom I have been very tough on in this blog, but his actions here go a small way towards earning my respect) cannot just punish the results of violent behavior. If they only dish out two games because the player wasn't hurt, how is that going to deter other acts of violence? If you wait until someone does get seriously hurt, it's a bit like closing the barn door after all the animals have escaped.
There is clearly something wrong with Chris Simon. He not only loses control of himself, he looks to seriously injure an opponent. I was outspoken last season after the Hollweg incident and I will repeat myself here: As a longtime fan of this team, I do not want (nor have I ever wanted) Chris Simon to be an Islander.
As a human being, I hope he gets the psychological help he needs so that he can, one day, be a productive and useful member of society.
As a hockey fan, I never want him to take the ice again.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Start/Sit: Week 15
Ok, guys and gals: This is it...Fantasy Playoff Time.
Conventional wisdom states the following: You dance with the one that brought you. In other words, this is not the time to get cute trying to outfox the experts by starting some lower regarded player in the hopes that he busts off a big game and makes you look like a genius. If you have Peyton, you play Peyton. It's just that simple.
But what if you don't have Peyton (or LT or Randy Moss or Antonio Gates)? Well, then it's my job to help steer you to a player on your roster who might help you win. I make no guarantees, but I have sacrificed a virgin goat to the Fantasy Gods in the hopes of covering my bases this week. Try finding a virgin goat sometime....not as easy as it looks. One farmer told me the average goat gets more action than you've had hot dinners.
Quarterback:
Start- Matt Hasselbeck- The Seahawks have been living up to their namesake by taking to the air often in recent games. That bodes well for Hasselbeck, who draws the toothless Panthers, the team that allowed David Garrard to hang 249 yards and two scores on them. Matt is getting hot at the right time of the year for his owners. Ride him to the finish line. Forecast- 280 yards, 2 touchdowns
Sit- Ben Roethlisberger- It's really not all Big Ben's fault. He has had to deal with numerous roadblocks to Success recently, ranging from poor field conditions to having to face the Patriots. However, the numbers show that he hasn't thrown for more than 200 yards a game for the past four weeks and that's not likely to change against a ravenous Jacksonville defense. You may not have a better option, but use him at your own peril. Forecast- 175 yards, 1 touchdown
Running Back:
Start- Rudi Johnson- Johnson has had an awful, injury-marred season However, he has risen from the dead and is back to producing again. He has scored in each of his last three games and, with Cincy's once-feared passing attack mired in a deep slump, seems primed to run all over the 49er's. Start him with confidence. Forecast- 90 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Kolby Smith- He came from nowhere to win Fantasy players' hearts and then broke those very same hearts last week in a crucial matchup, delivering only 12 measly yards on the ground. He's also banged up right now and is questionable for the tilt against Tennessee. Want some more evidence against him? The Titans desperately need this game to stay in the playoff hunt, Albert Haynesworth is back and they only give up an average of 101 yards per game on the ground anyway. Forecast- 50 yards
Wide Receiver:
Start- Brandon Marshall- Marshall is the lucky beneficiary of the injuries to Javon Walker and Brandon Stokely. He's become the Main Man in Denver and is coming off a huge effort against KC (115 yards, 2 touchdowns.) Houston, despite spending draft pick after draft pick on defensive players, is still not very good. Look for another fine week from Marshall. Forecast- 8 receptions, 100 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Roddy White- White played okay last week against New Orleans (3 catches for 75 yards), but most of that yardage came on one big pass play. That was before Atlanta was completely thrown into a maelstrom of confusion caused by their head coach resigning on Tuesday. Tampa Bay shut down White the last time they played him. I wouldn't recommend any Falcon this week and, if I did, White certainly wouldn't be the one. Forecast- 4 receptions, 30 yards.
Tight End:
Start- Ben Watson- Though he hasn't been very impressive lately, it is "elementary" to start my dear Watson this week (sorry, couldn't resist.) The Jets will probably concentrate all their efforts on blanketing Moss and Welker (yeah, good luck with that.) The Pats' waterboy may even score in this one. Watson should see a nice uptick in his numbers. Forecast- 5 receptions, 40 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Desmond Clark- Clark has been strong this season, holding off the challenge of young buck Greg Olsen. However, he now faces Minnesota with Kyle Orton as his quarterback. Granted, teams have thrown on the Vikings this year, but I think the whole Chicago air attack gets a downgrade with K.O at the helm. You can likely do better. Forecast- 3 receptions, 30 yards
Defense:
Start- Seattle- Five sacks and five interceptions last week against Arizona ought to be enough to convince anyone of Seattle's viability against Detroit. For those who still doubt, keep in mind that Seattle allows less than one touchdown per week through the air. Yes, I know Detroit ran well last week, but do you really want to be the guy betting that they can do it two weeks in a row? Didn't think so. Forecast- 4 sacks, 2 interceptions
Sit- Kansas City- This team just looks whipped. They've now lost 6 six games in a row and got pasted by the Broncos 41-7 last week. They can be beaten both in the air and on the ground and seem to have given up the ship. Vince Young and Company should definitely be able to exploit this bunch of Surrender Monkeys. Forecast- 1 interception
Conventional wisdom states the following: You dance with the one that brought you. In other words, this is not the time to get cute trying to outfox the experts by starting some lower regarded player in the hopes that he busts off a big game and makes you look like a genius. If you have Peyton, you play Peyton. It's just that simple.
But what if you don't have Peyton (or LT or Randy Moss or Antonio Gates)? Well, then it's my job to help steer you to a player on your roster who might help you win. I make no guarantees, but I have sacrificed a virgin goat to the Fantasy Gods in the hopes of covering my bases this week. Try finding a virgin goat sometime....not as easy as it looks. One farmer told me the average goat gets more action than you've had hot dinners.
Quarterback:
Start- Matt Hasselbeck- The Seahawks have been living up to their namesake by taking to the air often in recent games. That bodes well for Hasselbeck, who draws the toothless Panthers, the team that allowed David Garrard to hang 249 yards and two scores on them. Matt is getting hot at the right time of the year for his owners. Ride him to the finish line. Forecast- 280 yards, 2 touchdowns
Sit- Ben Roethlisberger- It's really not all Big Ben's fault. He has had to deal with numerous roadblocks to Success recently, ranging from poor field conditions to having to face the Patriots. However, the numbers show that he hasn't thrown for more than 200 yards a game for the past four weeks and that's not likely to change against a ravenous Jacksonville defense. You may not have a better option, but use him at your own peril. Forecast- 175 yards, 1 touchdown
Running Back:
Start- Rudi Johnson- Johnson has had an awful, injury-marred season However, he has risen from the dead and is back to producing again. He has scored in each of his last three games and, with Cincy's once-feared passing attack mired in a deep slump, seems primed to run all over the 49er's. Start him with confidence. Forecast- 90 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Kolby Smith- He came from nowhere to win Fantasy players' hearts and then broke those very same hearts last week in a crucial matchup, delivering only 12 measly yards on the ground. He's also banged up right now and is questionable for the tilt against Tennessee. Want some more evidence against him? The Titans desperately need this game to stay in the playoff hunt, Albert Haynesworth is back and they only give up an average of 101 yards per game on the ground anyway. Forecast- 50 yards
Wide Receiver:
Start- Brandon Marshall- Marshall is the lucky beneficiary of the injuries to Javon Walker and Brandon Stokely. He's become the Main Man in Denver and is coming off a huge effort against KC (115 yards, 2 touchdowns.) Houston, despite spending draft pick after draft pick on defensive players, is still not very good. Look for another fine week from Marshall. Forecast- 8 receptions, 100 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Roddy White- White played okay last week against New Orleans (3 catches for 75 yards), but most of that yardage came on one big pass play. That was before Atlanta was completely thrown into a maelstrom of confusion caused by their head coach resigning on Tuesday. Tampa Bay shut down White the last time they played him. I wouldn't recommend any Falcon this week and, if I did, White certainly wouldn't be the one. Forecast- 4 receptions, 30 yards.
Tight End:
Start- Ben Watson- Though he hasn't been very impressive lately, it is "elementary" to start my dear Watson this week (sorry, couldn't resist.) The Jets will probably concentrate all their efforts on blanketing Moss and Welker (yeah, good luck with that.) The Pats' waterboy may even score in this one. Watson should see a nice uptick in his numbers. Forecast- 5 receptions, 40 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Desmond Clark- Clark has been strong this season, holding off the challenge of young buck Greg Olsen. However, he now faces Minnesota with Kyle Orton as his quarterback. Granted, teams have thrown on the Vikings this year, but I think the whole Chicago air attack gets a downgrade with K.O at the helm. You can likely do better. Forecast- 3 receptions, 30 yards
Defense:
Start- Seattle- Five sacks and five interceptions last week against Arizona ought to be enough to convince anyone of Seattle's viability against Detroit. For those who still doubt, keep in mind that Seattle allows less than one touchdown per week through the air. Yes, I know Detroit ran well last week, but do you really want to be the guy betting that they can do it two weeks in a row? Didn't think so. Forecast- 4 sacks, 2 interceptions
Sit- Kansas City- This team just looks whipped. They've now lost 6 six games in a row and got pasted by the Broncos 41-7 last week. They can be beaten both in the air and on the ground and seem to have given up the ship. Vince Young and Company should definitely be able to exploit this bunch of Surrender Monkeys. Forecast- 1 interception
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Fantasy Hockey: Go Get 'Em
As the football season winds down, we will be concentrating a little bit more on the "Pucks" side of things here.
Here's a list of players who a.) Might be available on your waiver wire or b.) you should possibly target in trades.
You won't find a Crosby or Ovechkin on these lists. They're most likely unattainable anyway (and if you're their lucky owner, you should thank your lucky stars and hang onto them like a life vest in the middle of a shipwreck).
Goaltenders:
Ray Emery- Emery is proving to be the lesser of two evils in the Ottawa goaltending duo with Martin Gerber. While he's no sure thing and still lets in his share of bad goals, at least the Senators tend to compete harder and have a decent shot of winning when he is in the nets. He can probably be had for a relatively cheap price as well.
Tomas Vokoun- Florida is showing signs of life after a mediocre start to their season. Vokoun will be the beneficiary of the improved play in front of him. He's also started 26 of the Panthers games, never a bad statistic for a fantasy goalie.
Defense:
Joe Corvo- Continuing with the Ottawa theme, Corvo has been very active lately, recording at least one point in 5 of his last 6 games. A smooth skater with an offensive flair, he is also a +12 on the defensive side of things. With other defensemen currently struggling for the Sens, look for Corvo to get more ice time and to continue his fine season.
Pavel Kubina- Prior to his knee injury which shelved him for 10 games, Kubina was being very productive. Since returning, he has picked up where he left off, recording a point in each of his last 3 games. He has a healthy +9 rating and sees time on the power play also.
Forward:
RJ Umberger- Last night's 5 point game (including a hat trick) notwithstanding, Umberger has been fairly "Feast or Famine" this season. Though he has recorded points in only 12 of the 26 contests he's played in, 5 of those game were multi-point affairs. If you can withstand a few dry games, you ought to be rewarded with some nice outbursts from him (hopefully at a point when you need it.)
Brendan Morrison- Morrison is not a main weapon on the Canucks, but he does play an important role, one which you can utilize for your fantasy squad. More than half of his points (11 of 20) scored this year have come on the power play. He still needs to shoot more and he's not going to blow anyone away with his overall stats, but he can be a nice compliment to a team who desperately needs depth at the Center position.
Here's a list of players who a.) Might be available on your waiver wire or b.) you should possibly target in trades.
You won't find a Crosby or Ovechkin on these lists. They're most likely unattainable anyway (and if you're their lucky owner, you should thank your lucky stars and hang onto them like a life vest in the middle of a shipwreck).
Goaltenders:
Ray Emery- Emery is proving to be the lesser of two evils in the Ottawa goaltending duo with Martin Gerber. While he's no sure thing and still lets in his share of bad goals, at least the Senators tend to compete harder and have a decent shot of winning when he is in the nets. He can probably be had for a relatively cheap price as well.
Tomas Vokoun- Florida is showing signs of life after a mediocre start to their season. Vokoun will be the beneficiary of the improved play in front of him. He's also started 26 of the Panthers games, never a bad statistic for a fantasy goalie.
Defense:
Joe Corvo- Continuing with the Ottawa theme, Corvo has been very active lately, recording at least one point in 5 of his last 6 games. A smooth skater with an offensive flair, he is also a +12 on the defensive side of things. With other defensemen currently struggling for the Sens, look for Corvo to get more ice time and to continue his fine season.
Pavel Kubina- Prior to his knee injury which shelved him for 10 games, Kubina was being very productive. Since returning, he has picked up where he left off, recording a point in each of his last 3 games. He has a healthy +9 rating and sees time on the power play also.
Forward:
RJ Umberger- Last night's 5 point game (including a hat trick) notwithstanding, Umberger has been fairly "Feast or Famine" this season. Though he has recorded points in only 12 of the 26 contests he's played in, 5 of those game were multi-point affairs. If you can withstand a few dry games, you ought to be rewarded with some nice outbursts from him (hopefully at a point when you need it.)
Brendan Morrison- Morrison is not a main weapon on the Canucks, but he does play an important role, one which you can utilize for your fantasy squad. More than half of his points (11 of 20) scored this year have come on the power play. He still needs to shoot more and he's not going to blow anyone away with his overall stats, but he can be a nice compliment to a team who desperately needs depth at the Center position.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Start/Sit: Week 14
Many, many leagues begin their playoffs this week...it's an exciting time of the year for us fantasy geeks.
This column will be a little shorter than usual due to my attention being diverted by a developing situation outside the realm of fantasy sports (gasp...there's a realm outside fantasy sports??) My apologies.
Quarterback:
Start- Kellen Clemens- True, he might be down a couple of weapons. However, this one will be a shootout due to Cleveland's excellent offense coupled with their awful defense. Kellen will be flinging the rock all day long, never a bad thing. Forecast: 250 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception
Sit- Marc Bulger- Yes, he's been medically cleared from his concussion to play against the Bungles. That doesn't mean he should be in your lineup. One sack could end his day fast. Forecast: 150 yards
Running Back:
Start- Kolby Smith- Running backs going against the Denver Broncos tend to be an automatic start. Smith gained 83 yards last week against an improving San Diego line last week, so he's shown he has the right stuff to succeed. The only cautionary flag is the fact that his o-line is banged up right now. Forecast: 90 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Willis McGahee- McGahee keeps rearing his head in this column on both sides of the Start/Sit meter. This week, we're going with the Sit option. He did play very well against New England on Monday night, but the Colts have studied that game tape and will focus on stuffing him and making Kyle Boller beat them through the air. Forecast: 65 yards
Wide Receiver:
Start- Bobby Engram- If you own Engram, you've got to be very pleased with his 38 catches and 2 touchdowns since his bye week (October 28). He has taken advantage of the instability involving the Seattle receiving corps and proven himself to be a steady force to be counted on. Start him with confidence against a banged up Arizona defense. Forecast- 8 receptions, 100 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Larry Fitzgerald- Fitz picked the wrong time of year to come down with a groin strain. He is likely a game time decision against Seattle. Even if he goes, he's still not going to be healthy enough to take advantage of Anquan Boldin's absence. Forecast- 4 receptions, 50 yards
Tight End:
Start- Ben Watson- Watson's numbers have been nothing to write home about lately. He also had a couple of crucial drops against the Ravens. However, he makes for a sneaky play against Pittsburgh, who will be concentrating hard on limiting Randy Moss and Wes Welker. Forecast- 4 receptions, 40 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Alge Crumpler- Crumpler did have a big game last week against St Louis. However, he has done little else this season to justify a starting role in your lineup. Call it a hunch, but I have a feeling he doesn't do a lot on Monday night against New Orleans.- Forecast- 3 receptions, 30 yards
Defense:
Start- San Diego- The Chargers have been pretty hit or miss this season. However, they face a Tennessee team that is banged up and running on fumes these days. The Titans defense won't be able to hold back LT, so their offense is going to have to air it out, which will play right into San Diego's hands. Forecast- 3 sacks, 2 interceptions, 1 fumble recovery
Sit- New York Giants- In the last game they played against the Eagles, their pass rush destroyed Philadelphia and Donovan McNabb. I can't see the Eagles letting that happen again. Besides, this is a statement game for the Iggles at home and I expect them to come out gunning. Forecast- 1 sack, 1 interception
This column will be a little shorter than usual due to my attention being diverted by a developing situation outside the realm of fantasy sports (gasp...there's a realm outside fantasy sports??) My apologies.
Quarterback:
Start- Kellen Clemens- True, he might be down a couple of weapons. However, this one will be a shootout due to Cleveland's excellent offense coupled with their awful defense. Kellen will be flinging the rock all day long, never a bad thing. Forecast: 250 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception
Sit- Marc Bulger- Yes, he's been medically cleared from his concussion to play against the Bungles. That doesn't mean he should be in your lineup. One sack could end his day fast. Forecast: 150 yards
Running Back:
Start- Kolby Smith- Running backs going against the Denver Broncos tend to be an automatic start. Smith gained 83 yards last week against an improving San Diego line last week, so he's shown he has the right stuff to succeed. The only cautionary flag is the fact that his o-line is banged up right now. Forecast: 90 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Willis McGahee- McGahee keeps rearing his head in this column on both sides of the Start/Sit meter. This week, we're going with the Sit option. He did play very well against New England on Monday night, but the Colts have studied that game tape and will focus on stuffing him and making Kyle Boller beat them through the air. Forecast: 65 yards
Wide Receiver:
Start- Bobby Engram- If you own Engram, you've got to be very pleased with his 38 catches and 2 touchdowns since his bye week (October 28). He has taken advantage of the instability involving the Seattle receiving corps and proven himself to be a steady force to be counted on. Start him with confidence against a banged up Arizona defense. Forecast- 8 receptions, 100 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Larry Fitzgerald- Fitz picked the wrong time of year to come down with a groin strain. He is likely a game time decision against Seattle. Even if he goes, he's still not going to be healthy enough to take advantage of Anquan Boldin's absence. Forecast- 4 receptions, 50 yards
Tight End:
Start- Ben Watson- Watson's numbers have been nothing to write home about lately. He also had a couple of crucial drops against the Ravens. However, he makes for a sneaky play against Pittsburgh, who will be concentrating hard on limiting Randy Moss and Wes Welker. Forecast- 4 receptions, 40 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Alge Crumpler- Crumpler did have a big game last week against St Louis. However, he has done little else this season to justify a starting role in your lineup. Call it a hunch, but I have a feeling he doesn't do a lot on Monday night against New Orleans.- Forecast- 3 receptions, 30 yards
Defense:
Start- San Diego- The Chargers have been pretty hit or miss this season. However, they face a Tennessee team that is banged up and running on fumes these days. The Titans defense won't be able to hold back LT, so their offense is going to have to air it out, which will play right into San Diego's hands. Forecast- 3 sacks, 2 interceptions, 1 fumble recovery
Sit- New York Giants- In the last game they played against the Eagles, their pass rush destroyed Philadelphia and Donovan McNabb. I can't see the Eagles letting that happen again. Besides, this is a statement game for the Iggles at home and I expect them to come out gunning. Forecast- 1 sack, 1 interception
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Not "Raven" about the "Reffin''... and other thoughts from Week 13
I am not a "Conspiracy Theorist" by any means. Nor am I a fan of the Baltimore Ravens. However, I think there might be some slight credence to opinion that is making it's way around the NFL these days: The league is more interested in the Patriots having an undefeated season than it is in fair play.
There were several questionable calls made during Pats-Ravens game Monday night. Towards the end of the fourth quarter, with the Patriots driving and seemingly running out of hope, the calls against the Ravens started to get more bizarre. Granted, the refs didn't force Rex Ryan to take his ill-advised timeout which cost the Ravens the game (the defense had stopped the New England on 4th & 1, only to have the play nullified due to Ryan calling a timeout moments before the ball was snapped.) However, the call on Bart Scott for complaining about a ruling was unjustified. Scott's overreaction in throwing the flag into the stands, costing his team another 15 yards, was his own fault. But the frustration was certainly understandable.
Then comes the "Boy" allegation made by Samari Rolle, contending that one of the officials referred to him in a derogatory manner. The league is investigating this as well. Stay tuned.
Onto the other thoughts:
- I think the Redskins' starting the game with 10 men on the field in tribute to Sean Taylor is one of the noblest gestures I've ever seen. The organization chose to honor one of their leaders in a unique fashion and showed us all that, shockingly, there are more important things in this life than winning a football game.
- I suppose we can all stop worrying about Adrian Peterson's knee now. Not a bad performance by "Hey, I was here first!" Peterson of Chicago either.
- The Jets proved, despite the god-awful ugly uniforms, they are able to beat up on somebody. Memo to Miami: If you can't beat the Jets, you're not beating anybody.
- I think Sidney Rice may turn out to be the steal of the wide receivers in last year's draft. And yes, that includes "Megatron" Calvin Johnson.
- Javon Walker, please stay off the field until you are healthy enough to contribute fantasy-wise. I haven't been teased this badly since the fourth grade, when someone discovered my last name is the same as a very popular corn oil with an annoying jingle.
- Would anyone have ever guessed before the season that Fred Taylor would have more rushing yards than MJD? You go, Triple F! (Formerly Fragile Freddy)
- So, let me get this straight: Chris Redman, the guy who couldn't hold off Kyle Boller in Baltimore, is the latest quarterback savior for the Falcons? Have you no shame at all, Bobby Petrino?
- I guess we can give Randy Moss a mulligan for dropping that pass in the end zone, even though he cost me an undefeated fantasy season in one of my leagues by doing so. However, his fashion sense is atrocious. The pin stripe suit he wore to the post game press conference went all the way to 11, if you know what I mean.
There were several questionable calls made during Pats-Ravens game Monday night. Towards the end of the fourth quarter, with the Patriots driving and seemingly running out of hope, the calls against the Ravens started to get more bizarre. Granted, the refs didn't force Rex Ryan to take his ill-advised timeout which cost the Ravens the game (the defense had stopped the New England on 4th & 1, only to have the play nullified due to Ryan calling a timeout moments before the ball was snapped.) However, the call on Bart Scott for complaining about a ruling was unjustified. Scott's overreaction in throwing the flag into the stands, costing his team another 15 yards, was his own fault. But the frustration was certainly understandable.
Then comes the "Boy" allegation made by Samari Rolle, contending that one of the officials referred to him in a derogatory manner. The league is investigating this as well. Stay tuned.
Onto the other thoughts:
- I think the Redskins' starting the game with 10 men on the field in tribute to Sean Taylor is one of the noblest gestures I've ever seen. The organization chose to honor one of their leaders in a unique fashion and showed us all that, shockingly, there are more important things in this life than winning a football game.
- I suppose we can all stop worrying about Adrian Peterson's knee now. Not a bad performance by "Hey, I was here first!" Peterson of Chicago either.
- The Jets proved, despite the god-awful ugly uniforms, they are able to beat up on somebody. Memo to Miami: If you can't beat the Jets, you're not beating anybody.
- I think Sidney Rice may turn out to be the steal of the wide receivers in last year's draft. And yes, that includes "Megatron" Calvin Johnson.
- Javon Walker, please stay off the field until you are healthy enough to contribute fantasy-wise. I haven't been teased this badly since the fourth grade, when someone discovered my last name is the same as a very popular corn oil with an annoying jingle.
- Would anyone have ever guessed before the season that Fred Taylor would have more rushing yards than MJD? You go, Triple F! (Formerly Fragile Freddy)
- So, let me get this straight: Chris Redman, the guy who couldn't hold off Kyle Boller in Baltimore, is the latest quarterback savior for the Falcons? Have you no shame at all, Bobby Petrino?
- I guess we can give Randy Moss a mulligan for dropping that pass in the end zone, even though he cost me an undefeated fantasy season in one of my leagues by doing so. However, his fashion sense is atrocious. The pin stripe suit he wore to the post game press conference went all the way to 11, if you know what I mean.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Start/Sit: Week 13
Yes, I'm daring to show my face around here after recommending benching Favre on Thanksgiving. Turns out my crystal ball was one week off. Several readers of this blog will find this funny: C'est la Blackjack!
Quarterback:
Start- Jason Campbell- This game is going to be an emotional one for the Redskins after the death of Sean Taylor. Teams in this situation can either rise above the grief and dedicate their efforts to their fallen teammate or they get crushed by the overwhelming sadness. My bet is on Washington to overcome their devastation and for Campbell to lead the way. He has shown enough improvement this year to cautiously place your faith in him. Forecast- 280 yards, 3 touchdowns, 1 interception
Sit- Carson Palmer- God, I am getting tired of recommending Palmer be benched. He's too good for that sort of treatment. Yes, I'm aware he had a great game last week. But going against Pittsburgh at Ketchup Field in potentially poor weather conditions is not my idea of a particularly successful scenario. Forecast- 225 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions
Running Back:
Start- Justin Fargas- I am finally sold on Huggy Bear Jr. He ran for 139 yards last week against a much improved KC defense. Now he gets Denver, who, while they have been better recently, have not conclusively proven they can stop anyone on the ground yet. HBJ ought to be able to bust the Broncos. Forecast- 110 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Maurice Jones-Drew- Last season must seem like a long time ago to MJD. His average is down a full yard per carry and he has scored half the touchdowns. To make matters worse, Fred Taylor seems to have borrowed Lt. Dan's "Magic Legs" because lately, he's running like a young Gump. The Colts are also somewhat stingy against the run and will stack 8 men in the box, daring David Garrard and his group of no-name receivers to beat them. Forecast- 55 yards
Wide Receiver:
Start- Wes Welker- Does anyone else need to be convinced yet? Any team that is determined to take Randy Moss out of the game is doomed to failure because Wes will torch them like he's wielding a flamethrower. The Baltimore D has fallen on some hard times especially when it comes to defending the pass. Having to face the Patriots is the exact opposite of finding the remedy for what ails them. Forecast- 7 receptions, 90 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Roy Williams- Roy Boy is not a happy camper in D-town lately. The self-professed "Cheapest Man in the NFL" has found the Lions are being a little stingy themselves in regards to the amount of targets Williams has received (only 7 last week.) The Vikings are coming off their mauling of Eli Manning and the Midgets last week and are hungry for more. It'll be hard for Jon Kitna to target Williams more while he's flat on his back staring at the Metrodome's lights. Forecast- 5 receptions, 60 yards
Tight End:
Start- Tony Scheffler- Scheffler continues to impress recently. He has not caught less than 3 balls in a game since October 7. With the continued injury woes of Javon Walker (and now Brandon Stokely), Jay Cutler needs somebody to throw to. Scheffler could continue to be that guy. Forecast- 5 receptions, 50 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Owen Daniels- Despite my recommendation of sitting him, Daniels remains a decent TE option for the rest of the year. I just think that he won't be very good this particular week. Tennessee should see the return of Albert Haynesworth, a premiere defensive player whose presence they have sorely missed. The Titans look to make a strong stand and that doesn't bode well for any Texan, Daniels included. Forecast- 4 receptions, 40 yards
Defense:
Start- St. Louis- Whether or not I have lost my mind is certainly up for debate. What is not up for debate is that the Rams have been playing better in recent weeks. They face the Patron Saint of the Brain Freeze, Joey Harrington, this Sunday. Can you say "Enticing Matchup?" Forecast- 3 sacks, 2 interceptions
Sit- New York Giants- The Midgets must be ashamed of themselves this week after the drubbing they took against Minnesota on both sides of the ball. They might be good and revved up to face the Bears this week. However, if they happen to get "Good Rex", they could be in trouble yet again. The secondary in particular is prone to giving up big plays and, when Grossman is "on", he is capable of turning in a couple of those. Forecast- 2 sacks
Quarterback:
Start- Jason Campbell- This game is going to be an emotional one for the Redskins after the death of Sean Taylor. Teams in this situation can either rise above the grief and dedicate their efforts to their fallen teammate or they get crushed by the overwhelming sadness. My bet is on Washington to overcome their devastation and for Campbell to lead the way. He has shown enough improvement this year to cautiously place your faith in him. Forecast- 280 yards, 3 touchdowns, 1 interception
Sit- Carson Palmer- God, I am getting tired of recommending Palmer be benched. He's too good for that sort of treatment. Yes, I'm aware he had a great game last week. But going against Pittsburgh at Ketchup Field in potentially poor weather conditions is not my idea of a particularly successful scenario. Forecast- 225 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions
Running Back:
Start- Justin Fargas- I am finally sold on Huggy Bear Jr. He ran for 139 yards last week against a much improved KC defense. Now he gets Denver, who, while they have been better recently, have not conclusively proven they can stop anyone on the ground yet. HBJ ought to be able to bust the Broncos. Forecast- 110 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Maurice Jones-Drew- Last season must seem like a long time ago to MJD. His average is down a full yard per carry and he has scored half the touchdowns. To make matters worse, Fred Taylor seems to have borrowed Lt. Dan's "Magic Legs" because lately, he's running like a young Gump. The Colts are also somewhat stingy against the run and will stack 8 men in the box, daring David Garrard and his group of no-name receivers to beat them. Forecast- 55 yards
Wide Receiver:
Start- Wes Welker- Does anyone else need to be convinced yet? Any team that is determined to take Randy Moss out of the game is doomed to failure because Wes will torch them like he's wielding a flamethrower. The Baltimore D has fallen on some hard times especially when it comes to defending the pass. Having to face the Patriots is the exact opposite of finding the remedy for what ails them. Forecast- 7 receptions, 90 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Roy Williams- Roy Boy is not a happy camper in D-town lately. The self-professed "Cheapest Man in the NFL" has found the Lions are being a little stingy themselves in regards to the amount of targets Williams has received (only 7 last week.) The Vikings are coming off their mauling of Eli Manning and the Midgets last week and are hungry for more. It'll be hard for Jon Kitna to target Williams more while he's flat on his back staring at the Metrodome's lights. Forecast- 5 receptions, 60 yards
Tight End:
Start- Tony Scheffler- Scheffler continues to impress recently. He has not caught less than 3 balls in a game since October 7. With the continued injury woes of Javon Walker (and now Brandon Stokely), Jay Cutler needs somebody to throw to. Scheffler could continue to be that guy. Forecast- 5 receptions, 50 yards, 1 touchdown
Sit- Owen Daniels- Despite my recommendation of sitting him, Daniels remains a decent TE option for the rest of the year. I just think that he won't be very good this particular week. Tennessee should see the return of Albert Haynesworth, a premiere defensive player whose presence they have sorely missed. The Titans look to make a strong stand and that doesn't bode well for any Texan, Daniels included. Forecast- 4 receptions, 40 yards
Defense:
Start- St. Louis- Whether or not I have lost my mind is certainly up for debate. What is not up for debate is that the Rams have been playing better in recent weeks. They face the Patron Saint of the Brain Freeze, Joey Harrington, this Sunday. Can you say "Enticing Matchup?" Forecast- 3 sacks, 2 interceptions
Sit- New York Giants- The Midgets must be ashamed of themselves this week after the drubbing they took against Minnesota on both sides of the ball. They might be good and revved up to face the Bears this week. However, if they happen to get "Good Rex", they could be in trouble yet again. The secondary in particular is prone to giving up big plays and, when Grossman is "on", he is capable of turning in a couple of those. Forecast- 2 sacks
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
An Open Letter to Colin Campbell
Mr. Campbell,
As the Discipline Czar for the NHL, it is your job to mete out punishment for infractions that go above and beyond the severity of what a referee can impose during the game. You are entrusted with the sanctity of this sport and play a big role in determining how hockey is viewed by the general public.
There have been a rash of violent incidents recently in NHL games that have warranted your attention. The Steve Downie incident, the Jesse Boulerice incident, the Patrice Bergeron incident, the Mattias Ohlund incident and now the Scott Hartnell incident. All of these situations required the injured player to be helped from the ice. With all due respect, sir, the punishments you gave to these players for their deeds were ridiculously light.
I will qualify that statement somewhat: The suspension you gave to Steve Downie was severe, but not severe enough. He was docked his salary for 20 games, which I'm certain put a crimp in his finances. However, his crime deserved much more. His intent to injure Dean MacAmmond was clear.
You gave the following rulings on the other aforementioned incidents: Boulerice -25 games for cross checking another player in the face, Randy Jones - 2 games for ramming a defenseless player from behind into the glass, Mattias Ohlund- 4 games for winding up and viciously slashing another player in the leg and Hartnell- 2 games for ramming a player who was on his knees into the boards.
Pathetic.
What sort of punishment is 2 games? That is a mere slap on the wrist and sends the message to every player that this sort of heinous behavior will continue to be tolerated. You have punished the result of the crime, not the intent behind it. If any of those injured players had their careers ended due to their offending action, would you have denied any of the criminals the privilege of playing in the league? Apparently not, as evidenced by the fact that players such as Todd Bertuzzi still don a uniform on a nightly basis.
Obviously, hockey is a violent game and injuries are to be expected. I have been a fan of the sport for over 30 years and have seen many players injured as the result of simply playing. However, you have allowed the sport to spiral out of control. Players no longer fear any repercussions from their behavior. It is your fault that unskilled players attempting to make a name for themselves are allowed to perpetrate felonious assault and can get away with it. The pain and suffering of victims like Steve Moore is on your head.
You need to adjust your casual attitude 180 degrees and make an example of the very next offender. If you don't, the sport we love will forever be linked with this type of thuggery. The respect and approval that we crave from the general public will be withheld...and rightfully so. The beauty of a game played by some of the finest athletes in the world will be irrevocably marred because you fiddled while Rome burned.
Change your ways, Mr. Campbell. You have been given a huge responsibility and have failed miserably at carrying it out. I challenge you to prove you are not just an impotent figurehead, but a man worthy of respect.
Otherwise, the next person who should receive a lifetime ban is you.
As the Discipline Czar for the NHL, it is your job to mete out punishment for infractions that go above and beyond the severity of what a referee can impose during the game. You are entrusted with the sanctity of this sport and play a big role in determining how hockey is viewed by the general public.
There have been a rash of violent incidents recently in NHL games that have warranted your attention. The Steve Downie incident, the Jesse Boulerice incident, the Patrice Bergeron incident, the Mattias Ohlund incident and now the Scott Hartnell incident. All of these situations required the injured player to be helped from the ice. With all due respect, sir, the punishments you gave to these players for their deeds were ridiculously light.
I will qualify that statement somewhat: The suspension you gave to Steve Downie was severe, but not severe enough. He was docked his salary for 20 games, which I'm certain put a crimp in his finances. However, his crime deserved much more. His intent to injure Dean MacAmmond was clear.
You gave the following rulings on the other aforementioned incidents: Boulerice -25 games for cross checking another player in the face, Randy Jones - 2 games for ramming a defenseless player from behind into the glass, Mattias Ohlund- 4 games for winding up and viciously slashing another player in the leg and Hartnell- 2 games for ramming a player who was on his knees into the boards.
Pathetic.
What sort of punishment is 2 games? That is a mere slap on the wrist and sends the message to every player that this sort of heinous behavior will continue to be tolerated. You have punished the result of the crime, not the intent behind it. If any of those injured players had their careers ended due to their offending action, would you have denied any of the criminals the privilege of playing in the league? Apparently not, as evidenced by the fact that players such as Todd Bertuzzi still don a uniform on a nightly basis.
Obviously, hockey is a violent game and injuries are to be expected. I have been a fan of the sport for over 30 years and have seen many players injured as the result of simply playing. However, you have allowed the sport to spiral out of control. Players no longer fear any repercussions from their behavior. It is your fault that unskilled players attempting to make a name for themselves are allowed to perpetrate felonious assault and can get away with it. The pain and suffering of victims like Steve Moore is on your head.
You need to adjust your casual attitude 180 degrees and make an example of the very next offender. If you don't, the sport we love will forever be linked with this type of thuggery. The respect and approval that we crave from the general public will be withheld...and rightfully so. The beauty of a game played by some of the finest athletes in the world will be irrevocably marred because you fiddled while Rome burned.
Change your ways, Mr. Campbell. You have been given a huge responsibility and have failed miserably at carrying it out. I challenge you to prove you are not just an impotent figurehead, but a man worthy of respect.
Otherwise, the next person who should receive a lifetime ban is you.
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